Looking to Avoid the Anti-Republican Blowback in November 2008

Hastert to resign sooner to let the GOP stand a chance to retain the seat.

• A Republican official familiar with the situation said Hastert postponed plans to announce his resignation Thursday in order to prevent Illinois' Democratic governor from calling a special election as early as Feb. 5, the day of the state's presidential primary. Republicans believe Illinois Sen. Barack Obama's presence on the ballot in the White House race may produce a big Democratic turnout.

Good-bye Denny, sorry we ever knew ye.
- posted by john @ 7:08 PM